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Re-attach toilet holder? Check. Re-grout kitchen tiles? Check. Fix gap in back door? Check. Insulate water heater? Check. Yes, there are probably lots of things on your to do list this season. But what if you don’t have the time to do it yourself or you don’t have the money to pay someone else to do it?Preventative maintenance on your home is a proactive way of saving yourself money in the long run. Barter is a way to get it all done in a way that is friendly to your wallet.
First, make a detailed list of all the work you need performed. For example, walk around the interior and exterior of your home and note down all the repairs that need to be made or preventative measures you need to take. Then, get specific. If you need to hire a painter, establish how many rooms you’d like painted, the size of the rooms, whether any repairs will need to be made, if there is wallpaper that needs to be removed, if you need the ceiling and trim to be painted, etc. Then, obtain detailed estimates from two local companies who are not affiliated with Southern Barter Club – companies that accept cash only. This will help you establish the current market rate of your project. Once you have written estimates in hand, log on to the Member Area at Southern Barter Club and peruse the Service List (if you’re not a member, you can join here). You can then contact a tradesperson directly to get an estimate (you might also find gift certificates in the Barter Store for the types of services you need).
Good to Know - If the service or item you need isn’t in the directory or barter store, you can add it to your “wanted items” list and SBC will send you an automated e-mail when the service or product becomes available. Also, don’t hesitate to call your broker and they’ll do their best to help you find what you need!
Be sure that you get detailed estimates in writing as most contractors perform labor on trade, but charge cash for materials. Know what amount is due in cash and what amount is due on trade and when payment is expected. For large projects, draw up a contract and have it signed by both parties.
Be sure that the tradesperson is qualified to provide the services they are bartering and that they have adequate experience. Bartering doesn’t mean cheap or unprofessional, so check references just like you would any other contractor. If the job requires liability insurance, be sure that the vendor provides the appropriate documentation.
The key to working successfully with a tradesperson on trade is to be flexible and realize that their availability increases during off-peak times. So take advantage of the cooler weather and get the work done now, before the weather heats up!
